Iron Man 2 - Thoughts

After the rage that was Iron Man in 2008, the sequel Iron Man 2 was released in April 2010. I’d seen the trailers for Iron Man 2, and Micky Rourke as Whiplash was simply menacing. Needless to say, Iron Man 2 was a must watch. In this sequel, billionaire inventor Tony Stark has to deal with pressure from the US government, competition from Hammer Industries, and the Russian super villain, Whiplash.


Iron Man 2 had a relatively long runtime of 124 minutes. The viewers can expect to see all that they’re familiar with from the Iron Man movie franchise, including intense action sequences with excessive levels of destruction, impressive special effects throughout, and Tony Stark’s completely over the edge and full of himself personality. New additions include additional characters from the Iron Man DC universe, minimal back-story into Tony Stark’s family, and limited to negligible character development. Whiplash is severe and ominous, and the action has been taken up a few notches, but that’s about it. If you’re looking for entertainment and action, Iron Man 2 does very well. Iron Man 2 has a simple plot, is suitable for children, and is pretty much an extension of the elements from the first Iron Man movie, with very little that is really new. The movie remains light all through, and has casual comic elements to it. After the first half the movie did tend to drag a little, with the scenes being slow and stretched.

For those who have watched the first Iron Man movie from 2008, I’m sure it comes as no surprise that Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark is perfection personified. He’s obsessive, compulsive, witty, insufferably narcissistic, somewhat eccentric, and unnecessarily extreme. It’s safe to say at this point the Robert Downey has solidified his position as Iron Man to the point that future sequels will be impossible without him. Mickey Rourke, a new addition to the Iron Man franchise was again simply flawless. He came across as passionate, driven, vengeful, and ruthless. The intensity with which he brought Whiplash’s character to life was perhaps one of the highlights of the movie. Don Cheadle as Lt. Col. James 'Rhodey' Rhodes played the voice of reason, bringing a sense of seriousness to the movie. Gwyneth Paltrow as Pepper Potts did a good job of seeming up to her neck in Iron Man drama clean-up; an adequate performance overall. Jon Favreau who stars as Happy Hogan, Tony Stark’s chauffeur, added comic relief in a silly bumbling sorta way. Incidentally Favreau is also the director of both the Iron Man movies.

I’d considered watching this one in the theatre, but owing to schedule conflicts was forced to catch the DVD. As in most cases, being a Region 1 US DVD, video and color were bright and clear for most part, with Red and Gold tones being a little over emphasized; that being intentional off course. There were some dark scenes though where definition was average. Sound was spot on, and the Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack accompanied the action sequences perfectly.

My Recommendation: Watch It (A must for those who can’t get enough of Iron Man)

Eight Legged Freaks - Thoughts

With no exposure to any promo activities I was unaware of this movie at the time of its release, way back in 2002. Recently enough as part of my regular movie research, I was looking at the movies that Roland Emmerich was involved with, and strangely enough this one popped up. Most of the others were hugely popular blockbusters like Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow, and 2012. Eight Legged Freaks looked to be a joint effort, and possibly B grade in nature. The cast was relatively familiar, and I figured this one was worth checking out. In terms of the plot its very straight forward; a collection of unique and exotic spiders get exposed to toxic waste and thus end up growing geometrically. These giant spiders terrorize a small town and its inhabitants.


As expected with B grade movies, the plot is one-dimensional and is extremely predictable. While there is almost no character development, there are some small parallel running character driven sub-plots. Being as limited, this movie is a great candidate for multi-tasking situations wherein you need to get other stuff done, but can watch a movie while you’re at it. The special effects were surprisingly good for a movie as small and possibly low budget. I’d expect that this has to do with Roland Emmerich’s involvement in the movie, and probably other related crew members as well. While having its thrilling moments, the movie also has a casual silliness that helps keep things light. Even while faced with the growing death count and seemingly no-win situation there is a relaxed feel to the movie. In terms of a genre, the movie is officially billed as a Horror Comedy flick. It’s not really scary, though I’d admit to the presence of a few thrilling scenes. There is a comedy track, and I guess it does have a light mood to it.

Kari Wuhrer as Sheriff Samantha Parker was pretty decent. Her portrayal of a small town law official, and a caring mother of two was sufficiently adequate. If you have been following her career, this is probably one of her more mainstream and less risqué roles. David Arquette as Chris McCormick was noticeably amateur, but acceptable. Through his character he added some humor to the plot that worked okay. Scarlett Johansson is probably one of the better known cast members. In Eight Legged Freaks her role is more that of a child-actress/teenager, playing the role of Ashley Parker, the sheriff Sam Parkers daughter. Interestingly, this was just prior to her award winning performance in Lost in Translation, released in 2003. To the unacquainted, she won a ‘Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role’ at the BAFTA awards. Lost in Translation was her sorta coming of age performance that put her on the map. In Eight Legged Freaks though her role was very limited, but her portrayal of a teenager was pretty good. What was interesting was that she actually resembled Kari Wuhrer, who plays her mom in the movie.

This movie was pretty hard to source, and thus I had to settle for a high bitrate DivX rip (Ripped from DVD). Owing to the high bitrate the video quality was good, without any overly noticeable pixilation. Color vibrancy as always was lacking being a DivX rip. No specific post production color tones were used. I’d expect the DVD release to be pretty good; clear with natural colors. Special effects / CGI were good, and all the action / thrill sequences were visually realistic. Sound was presented by means of a Dolby Digital AC3 5.1 soundtrack. Dialog was clear all through, and sound was ample. Surround stage usage was minimal, but noticeable and present during certain scenes. The music score was orchestral with a high level of interactivity based on the mood of the specific scene.

My Recommendation: Dicey (Good special effects, a very simplistic plot, and mediocre performances)

10000 BC - Thoughts

Released in 2008, 10000 BC is one of Roland Emmerich’s less successful blockbuster efforts. While it was initially hyped during the promotional stage, once aired the critics as well as the public spoke of innumerable historical inaccuracies. I remember seeing the trailers in High Def, and subsequently turning a deaf ear to the media chatter; as I always do. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt about movies, never rely on public opinion or even that of your friends. In 10000 BC, the story follows D’Leh; a young hunter who travels great distances leading his tribesmen and those of several adjoining tribes, to secure a safe and sustainable future for the people, while rescuing his woman, Evolet.


The plot is very simple and straightforward; there are no unexpected twists or in-depth analysis required to figure out 10000 BC. Keeping in mind that this is a depiction of life in 10000 BC, I think it’s only fair that the conflict be based on simple elements like food, the lack of it, oppression of the people, and the treachery and deceit in the name of the gods. That said the movie is fairly interesting, and worth the watch. As expected of Emmerich and his crew, when it comes to visual effects 10000 BC does not disappoint. The Saber-tooth tiger and mighty Mammoth are so real and lifelike that you’ll believe that you’re seeing them in person at perhaps the zoo. It takes a while before you realize, wait these are extinct animals, this is not normal. Watch it for the special effects and the simple yet practical story 10000 BC sets out to be, and you’ll enjoy it.

Performances were average, with most of the cast being amateur. D’Leh was played by Steven Strait, and though his performance lacked some, it made sense from the perspective of him being a crude barbaric man, with expression not necessarily being his forte. Camilla Belle as Evolet had a sorta pretty girl in the tribe charm that worked well. She had the required dreaminess while being rough around the edges. Cliff Curtis as Tic’Tic, the lead warrior of the tribe, executed his role quite well, and was one of the stronger performances. He came across convincingly as experienced, and wise; taking on a somewhat father figure for D’Leh. Finally, Affif Ben Badra, the warlord sent out to steal and plunder from the villages had a cunning to him that worked well. He was harsh and cruel, while being smart enough to further his own agenda.

The DVD I was watching was a regular Region 1 US DVD. Video was good throughout, with visibility remaining consistently clear. Some of the night shots were dark and dusty, but I believe this was intentional. Many of the long shots were scenic and beautiful. CGI was flawless, and sets and creatures were more real than ever. Sound was decent, and was by means of a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack. Ambient desert sounds set the pace well, and dialog was sharp and clear through the center channel.

My Recommendation: Watch It (When Discovery Channel meets HBO)

Resident Evil: Afterlife - Thoughts

Afterlife at last, is what I said to myself when Resident Evil: Afterlife opened in theatres in Chennai. It is the 4th installment in the Resident Evil franchise, and a hugely anticipated movie for all Resident Evil fans, including myself. For me to say that Resident Evil: Afterlife is perhaps my most anticipated movie of 2010, would not be a stretch, as such is my love for Resident Evil. In Afterlife, we follow Alice in her battle against the evil Umbrella Corporation. This time she takes the fight to them, attacking their HQ in Tokyo. What follows is her pursuit for the safe haven only known as Arcadia, with a group of unexpected survivors. To those unfamiliar with Resident Evil, the Umbrella Corporation developed a deadly T-virus in one of their high-tech facilities called The Hive. Following an accident, the virus spread rapidly, affecting first The Hive’s occupants, then Raccoon city, and eventually spreading to the rest of the world. The first movie covered the events in The Hive, the second the infection of Racoon city, and the third set a few years later, in an all but ravaged desolate earth. Returning in Afterlife is director Paul W.S. Anderson from the very first Resident Evil movie.


Going into Afterlife, I’m sure most Resident Evil fans would have had a fair idea of what to expect; zombies, carnage, intense action sequences, impressive special effects, high tech Umbrella Corp. facilities, extreme sci-fi concepts, and plenty of Alice. In terms of the plot, the closing minutes of Resident Evil: Extinction, set the stage for the events to follow in the 4th part. So all this said, just a mere rehash would probably have been lackluster, and sticking to the plots expectation though safe, would have been limited and lacking in ingenuity. The one new element thrown in the mix was the addition of 3D, which seems to be the in thing now. 97 minutes of intense 3D action later, I’d have to say that Afterlife didn’t disappoint. What it did very successfully, was take several loved Resident Evil elements, combine it with a plot that managed to intrigue, and add a new level of action appeal by means of unique 3D use. What viewers might have expected for the plot to be, was wrapped up in the first 10 minutes, in a satisfying hardcore action sequence sorta way. What followed was fresh, yet realistically melded narrative elements. The pace of the movie was a mix of slower scenes that help add to the desolate end of humanity theme, and faster extreme action sequences. I only had one gripe, which had to do with a poorly introduced character, who’s presence, origin, and context till the end never got explained. Special mention must be made of the excellent use of 3D in Afterlife. The riveting stop motion action scenes, coupled with the clever use of 3D was simply mind-blowing. In short, Resident Evil: Afterlife makes the legendary Matrix’s special effects look paltry at best. Horror elements are pretty much absent, and sudden scares are limited compared to its predecessors. In a nut shell, Resident Evil: Afterlife is very impressive, a must watch for Resident Evil fans, and action lovers alike.

Project Alice, as the Umbrella Corp. refers to her, played by Milla Jovovich is the centerpiece to Resident Evil. So integral is her role in the narrative, that it would be hard to imagine continuity of the franchise in her absence. Considering that Milla has been perfect 3 times already, saying that she fit the bill of Alice well, would be stating the obvious. The only difference this time was the slightly more human side to her character, which she seemed to be able to portray well, while kicking zombie behind, and obviously shining as a hardened action veteran. Several of her stunt sequences reminded me of the athletic prowess of Lara Croft in the Tomb Raider. Cliare Redfiled, making a reprise in Afterlife was increasingly impressive. Some of her character Claire Redfield’s action sequences put her on par with Alice, and without a doubt solidified her characters role as Alice’s trusty counterpart. New additions were Ventworth Miller as Chris Redfield of Prison Break fame, and Boris Kodjoe as Luther. Their performances were pretty decent and sufficient bearing in mind their role in the plot. Shawn Roberts played the role of Albert Wesker, the ultra-cool super villain in Afterlife, who reminded me of Val Kilmer from Tom Gun. Shawn was brilliant as the cold, emotion less, almost impervious to pain and unstoppable antagonist; a fitting rival indeed.

Needless to say, I watched this one in the theatre; alas the wait since Resident Evil: Extinction was hard enough. There was no way I was going to wait till the original DVD was released. Owing to the 3D glasses, picture seemed a little dark and dull throughout. It’s my belief that the intentional dark tone of Resident Evil coupled with the 3D glasses was the cause for this. Rest assured this doesn’t in anyway take away from the overall video viewing experience. The DVD should be clear, while retaining post production dark overtones to emphasize the Resident Evil mood. Sound was quite impressive, and while no specific element stood it, it was woven with the action sequences masterfully to create simply incredible action movie moments. The musical score was perfect, and helped push the action a notch higher, while in keeping with the Resident Evil theme. 3D visual effects were used extensively, and perhaps the most that I have seen in any movie to date. While movies like Avatar used 3D to present simple nature and environments well, Afterlife took it to a whole new level. Every action sequence was built from ground up keeping in mind the 3D element, and its impact on the audience. Every swinging blade and flying bullet is calculated, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself making sudden embarrassing movements in the theatre to avoid flying debris.

My Recommendation: Watch It + (Possibly cooler than your own afterlife)

Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope - Thoughts

Released way back in 1977, Star Wars is now nothing short of legendary and iconic. Episode IV – A New Hope is the first in a trilogy that spanned from 1977 to 1983. Created and directed by George Lucas, Star Wars is known for its pioneering use of special effects, sci-fi storytelling, and non-conventional editing. Commercially it became the no.1 highest grossing movie of all time, and also went on to become the most influential movie of all time. In 1997, the Star Wars trilogy was digitally remastered and re-released to theatres in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. Subsequently DVDs were also released. George Lucas completed his Star Wars saga with a follow up the original trilogy with a prequel trilogy set 32 years before Episode IV - A New Hope. As implied by the name, in A New Hope, the rebellion forces take on the mighty and evil Galactic Empire, in the hope of restoring peace in the galaxy. Luke Skywalker is introduced as a simple farm boy, who is in some way connected to all the turmoil in the galaxy. As he gets drawn into the plot, his strong connection with the force is revealed.


It’s been a while since I’ve seen Star Wars, but it was an absolute pleasure seeing it again. Another interesting point to note is that it was the first time I was seeing Episode IV after the prequel trilogy of Episodes I, II, and III. Owing to the added backstory from the prequels, a lot of the scenes in Episode IV - A New Hope had new and added value. The narrative process was strong, and the plot irrespective of its high dependency on sci-fi elements and special effects, remained interesting. Though I’ve seen all the Star Wars movies before, at the end of Episode IV I was in one of those, can’t wait to see Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back now moods. Pacing was good, and slow and fast elements/scenes were blended well. Being a new universe with new characters, new themes, and new twists, care was taken to gradually initiate the audience into the overall saga; ensuring that way that the viewers wouldn’t feel lost halfway into the movie. For most part concepts were kept simple, that way not losing out on the not so hardcore sci-fi junkies. To substantiate my point, I watched Episode IV with a newbie to the franchise who had only heard of Star Wars; comments after were that it was entertaining and made for a fun watch. That said, I guess it’s safe to say that Star Wars has universal appeal; including the uninitiated and non sci-fi folk. For the legions of Star Wars fans, this movie will undoubtedly be amazing and deserves a rating of Kick Ass by all means. Personally I got goose bumps nearly 10 times at various points, often supported by the brilliant Star Wars theme score.

Mark Hamill stars in the lead role as Luke Skywalker. He does a fine job of playing a teenager, bored with the mundane chores of being a farmer, and is eager to travel and explore the galaxy. Presented well was the awe in his eyes and expressions, for what the galaxy and his life had in store for him, outside of his home planet of Tatooine. Harisson Ford, who looks incredibly young, plays the role of Han Solo, a young hotshot spaceship captain. Though his methods are rash, and possibly bad boy hero like, he means well. Ford does a good job of portraying those varied characteristics, while adding some humor and spontaneity to the plot. Carrie Fisher plays princess Leia, a prominent leader of the rebellion forces, a member of the imperial senate, and a part of the royal family of Alderaan. Again an impressive performance; clearly imminent is her royal background and upbringing. Also noticeable is that her character is very capable and not sacred of getting her hands dirty based on the need of the hour. When it comes to characters, Star Wars is like an ocean, so I will hold off at this point. C-3PO and R2-D2 though just droids, with limited to no expression are vital components of Star Wars. Needless to say Star Wars is a beautifully crafted work of art. As expected with all movies employing vast extras and un-credited cast members, there are several amateurs who have limited screen time with mediocre performances; but it’s no bigge and doesn’t take away from the splendor of Star Wars in anyway.

The DVD I was watching was a Region 1 US release of the 2004 digitally remastered version of Star Wars – Episode IV. Picture quality was good throughout, and except for a few slightly darker scenes were definition was reduced, things were good for most part. The digital restoration process was obviously very successful. The audio was simply remarkable, with sounds effects being sharp and dialog being clear. Surround usage was perhaps one of the best I’ve ever come across, with 3D positional sound being very noticeable in several scenes. The surround mix was far superior to that of most action movies released nowadays. The soundtrack I was listening to was a Dolby Digital 5.1 track. The score again was brilliant; kudos to John Williams for the theme and sound of Star Wars. Most older movies come off cheesy when revisited, but that isn’t the case with Star Wars. While some of the scenes looked a little dated, overall it was amazing to see a movie from 1977 look and sound so good.

My Recommendation: Watch It + (Flip to the word legendary in the dictionary, and you’ll find a picture of Star Wars)

Predators - Thoughts

When I first heard that a Predator movie was in the making, I knew it was a must watch; irrespective of media opinion. The first Predator movie was released way back in 1987, starring Schwarzenegger in the lead. A sequel with Danny Glover was released in 1990. The Predator character made a return in the 2004/2007 Alien versus Predator movies. Though most of the above mentioned movies were more or less commercially successful, hardcore fans of the first movie didn’t like the evolution of the Predator franchise. In an attempt to set things right, a Predators movie was announced in April 2009. The intent was that the movie would be set directly after the events of the first Predator movie, altogether ignoring all the subsequent sequels. This time a group of warriors, specialized in their individual combat styles from various geographies are brought together, and then hunted by a clan of Predators.


An action filled 107 minutes later, I was left feeling sufficiently entertained and satisfied. Right from the very opening sequences you will notice that the jungle setting of the movie is beautiful. The plantation is thick, green and lush. The overall scenic splendor of the movie is worth mention. One of the most gripping and awe inspiring scenes is about 25 minutes into the movie when the unlikely group reach the edge of the ravine and get a full view of the horizon for the first time. Besides picturesque value, that specific scene had an immense impact on the plot. The mood and feel of Predators reminded me of the original Predator from 1987, and the more recent The Condemned movie from 2007. (The Condemned had a similar bunch of convicts of varied origin pit against each other in a battle to death on a remote island). While some parts of the narrative process and dialog were predictable, it wasn’t to the point of being laughable. The action elements of the movie were gripping and realistic; violence and gore were present throughout. There was a constant thrill element, with numerous surprises at every turn. The plot leaves very little room for anything new, and traverses in the now stereotype ‘eliminate the characters, one at a time’ formula. For Predator franchise fans and sci-fi enthusiasts, this movie will be entertaining. The same goes for action lovers. Character development is limited, though present. Predators is not suitable for children and those expecting deep intricate plots.

Adrien Brody plays Royce, the possibly ex-special forces, American mercenary, who stereotypically becomes the brains and unofficial leader of the group. His performance was very good; not only was he very convincing in the action role, but he portrayed the character elements of a mercenary with questionable human values very well. Alice Braga as Isabelle did a decent job; being the only female cast member, she managed to play with the boys, while still showing some emotion. Topher Grace of That 70’s Show (TV Serial) fame played Edwin, adding nominal comic relief to the otherwise action ensemble of characters. Mahershalalhashbaz Ali of The 4400 (TV Serial) fame played Mombasa, an elite African combatant. His role was limited but adequate. Oleg Taktarov as Nikolai came across as hardcore, yet a good man; a minimal yet successful representation.

I didn’t want to have to wait too much, so I checked this one out in the theatre. Video was sharp and the digital transfer was crisp and clear; this stood out at various points during the runtime of the movie. Colors were natural, and no obvious postproduction tones were noticeable. I’d expect the DVD transfer to be impeccable. Sound was good, and surround usage was ample; while nothing stood out, the action sequences and jungle ambience was perfect. Without too much analysis and dissecting, overall technical elements were very efficient and faultless.

My Recommendation: Watch It (An entertaining action sci-fi flick)

Shinedown: Sound Of Madness - Thoughts

I hadn’t heard of Shinedown up until early 2009, when I heard one of their songs, Second Chance in the Billboard US Top 40. Considering I really liked it, I decided to follow-up on the artist. The first step was to get their album that had Second Chance on it, and give it a listen. That’s how I got around to acquiring and hearing Sound of Madness. From my subsequent online research I learned that Shinedown was a relatively new band from Jacksonville, Florida that came together in 2001. Sound of Madness was their third studio album released in 2008.


• Artist: Shinedown
• Album: Sound Of Madness
• Release Date: Jun 24, 2008
• Genre: Rock

Key Credits:
• Brent Smith – vocals
• Barry Kerch – drums
• Zach Myers – guitar
• Eric Bass – bass

After having heard the album several times over in these pasts months, it’s safe to say that its quite amazing. It’s a nice blend of hard hitting fast rock, and power ballads with emotion; a few tracks even have a alternative rock sound to it. Some tracks appealed to me from the get go, while others grew onto me with repeated hearing. Frankly speaking it’s hard to fault a single track; they’re all quite remarkable. Sound of Madness has to be one of my all time favorite albums, with excessively high repeat hearing value.

- The opening track Devour sounds intense and charged. While having a noticeably swift pace, it’s not unnecessarily hard or putting off. Devour has featured in the Final Destination soundtrack and has been used in multiple WWE events and video games including Madden NFL 09.

- Second Chance is the bands most popular track to date, reaching #7 in the Billboard Top 100 in June 2009. Its slower and has a nice pleasing sound to it; proving that Shinedown is not afraid of taking a risk with different styles.

- The Crow & the Butterfly has a melodious flow to it, while maintaining a sense of power and passion. Listen carefully and you’ll hear the sound of violins; which works really well here. This track is one of my personal favorites.

- Cyanide Sweet Tooth Suicide is probably the fastest song on the album. It just whizzes past while ensuring to sound great throughout.

- Call Me is a ballad, with very minimal string use, relying heavily on the piano. Brent Smith expertly shows deep passion and emotion in this song. It’s a perfect closing for the album, and another one of my favorites.

While I haven’t gone into details of all the tracks, every single one has something noticeably nice to it. The version I was sampling was the Fan Club Limited Edition. It had 3 additional bonus tracks (I Own You, Energy, and Son Of Sam) which were also quite good. Considering that I was listening to this in 2009, after several weeks of repeated hearing I decided to give it a break, and sample some newer music. A few days ago though, the sound of Shinedown started playing in my head and I was compelled to fire it up again.

My Recommendation: An Aural Extravaganza (The Sound of Madness is the sound of awesomeness)